Understanding types of moisture-associated skin damage (MASD): Prevention, identification and management

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Understanding types of moisture-associated skin damage (MASD): Prevention, identification and management

Jacqui Fletcher, Sian Fumarola, Rachel Allaway, Luxmi Dhoonmoon, Emma McMullen, Danielle Burnside, Emma Foy, Nicky Richardson, Tabatha Rando,
4 November 2025

In the United Kingdom, there remains a significant unmet need for accessible, practical guidance to support healthcare professionals in the assessment and classification of moisture-associated skin damage.

This document recognises the complexity of moisture-associated skin damage. Moisture-associated skin damage is an umbrella term encompassing four key areas:

  • Incontinence-associated dermatitis
  • Peristomal complications
  • Intertriginous dermatitis
  • Periwound moisture-associated skin damage.

In April 2025, a multidisciplinary group of experts convened in person to review current evidence, share clinical experience and develop recommendations tailored to the United Kingdom healthcare context. This collaborative process builds on the foundational framework established by Fletcher et al (2020) in “Prevention and Management of Moisture-Associated Skin Damage (MASD)”, published in Wounds International. 

This updated Best Practice Statement document adapts these principles and latest evidence to the specific needs of United Kingdom healthcare professionals. It aims to provide clear, practical guidance to support best practice in the prevention and management of moisture-associated skin damage, with the goal of improving patient outcomes and reducing the incidence and impact of these and related skin conditions through proactive, skin-focussed care plans.

Jacqui Fletcher, Chair

Download the PDF below to access the full Best Practice Statement

Disclaimer: This document has been developed by Wounds UK and is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Flen Health.
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